Tasty Ground Beef Budget Recipe

A truly satisfying meal doesn’t have to break the bank. This Tasty Ground Beef Budget Recipe brings together everyday pantry ingredients to create a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy on your wallet. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s the kind of comfort food that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to cook like a pro. With simple spices and a few clever touches, this recipe delivers big flavor for small cost,an ideal go-to for home cooks everywhere.

Ingredients List

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup canned tomatoes, crushed or diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
  • ½ cup beef broth or water
  • 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ground Beef Budget Meal
Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Toss in the diced bell pepper, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Stir well and let the spices bloom in the oil for a minute to release their full flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine and let it simmer gently for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors blend beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the ground beef mixture over cooked rice, pasta, or even inside tortillas for a quick wrap. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 580mg

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Suggestions

  • Add frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots to stretch the meal and add color.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Top with shredded cheese or serve with a fried egg for extra richness.
  • Pair with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete dinner.

Seasonal Relevance

This ground beef recipe fits any season perfectly,warm and cozy for winter, yet light enough for a summer evening. It’s also an excellent option for busy back-to-school nights or budget-conscious holiday cooking.

Conclusion

Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on taste. This Tasty Ground Beef Budget Recipe combines simple ingredients, smart seasoning, and minimal effort to create a meal that feels indulgent without overspending. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile,proof that comfort and affordability can truly go hand in hand.

Tasty Ground Beef Budget Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

290

kcal
Total time

30

minutes

This Tasty Ground Beef Budget Recipe is the perfect combination of affordability, simplicity, and rich flavor. Made with basic pantry staples like ground beef, onions, and spices, it’s an easy meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether served over rice, pasta, or tucked into tacos, this recipe delivers delicious results every time without stretching your grocery budget.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced

  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

  • ½ cup beef broth or water

  • 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional, for serving)

  • Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Directions

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Add bell pepper, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Stir well.
  • Mix in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until thickened.
  • Serve hot over rice or pasta, and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken.
  • Add frozen vegetables like peas or corn to make the meal go further.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months — they reheat perfectly for quick lunches.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste; add a pinch of cayenne if you like a kick of heat.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in the fridge for up to four days and reheat when needed.

Q2: What’s the best side dish to serve with this recipe?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced and filling meal.

Q3: Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based mince for a flavorful vegetarian alternative.

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